Viuva Gomes - Collares Tinto 2017 (500ml)
Viuva Gomes Red, Ramisco – DOC Colares 2017 offers a captivating glimpse into a truly unique and endangered wine region of Portugal. Hailing from the small, historic Colares DOC, northwest of Lisbon, this wine is crafted entirely from the indigenous Ramisco grape, grown on its original, ungrafted roots in the region’s distinctive sandy soils. These deep layers of sand, underlain by clay and limestone, protected the Colares vineyards from the phylloxera epidemic that devastated Europe in the 19th century. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean shapes the terroir, exposing the vines to constant maritime winds and maintaining mild temperatures year-round. The mist that frequently blankets the region, influenced by the nearby Sintra hills, adds another layer of complexity to the environment.
The 2017 vintage was carefully harvested by hand, with selection taking place in the vineyard. The winemaking process is traditional, featuring spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel vats and whole bunch foot-trodding, with extended skin contact throughout fermentation. This Ramisco then undergoes a remarkable five-year aging period in a combination of French oak, Chestnut, and Mahogany barriques. The resulting wine presents a vivid brick color of medium intensity. It is a light and precise red, offering delicate traces of black fruit, cherries, and earthy forest notes. Expect firm tannins and vibrant acidity, leading to a distinctly dry structure.
This exceptional wine, bottled with a natural Portuguese cork, possesses an impressive aging potential of up to 30 years and is best enjoyed after decanting at 57-60° alongside game dishes or light meats. The Viuva Gomes Ramisco is a rare taste of history, representing one of the world's most unique and threatened wine appellations.
